### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chrēsis**, represented by `{{G5540}}`, denotes **employment** or **use**, specifically in the context of sexual intercourse as an occupation of the body. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, establishing a very specific and focused meaning within scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5540}}` appears exclusively in the context of actions that are contrary to nature. It is used to describe how women "did change the natural **use**" [[Romans 1:26]] and how men were "leaving the natural **use** of the woman" [[Romans 1:27]]. In both instances, the term is qualified by the word "natural" `{{G5446}}` and is presented as a departure from an established order, an action taken after God "gave them up unto vile affections" [[Romans 1:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of `{{G5540}}`:
* `{{G5446}}` **physikós** (natural): This adjective directly modifies **use** in both of its occurrences, defining the standard from which a deviation occurs [[Romans 1:26]].
* `{{G5449}}` **phýsis** (nature): This term is set in direct opposition to the actions described. The change from the natural use is described as being "against **nature**" [[Romans 1:26]].
* `{{G3337}}` **metallássō** (to exchange): This verb describes the action performed upon the natural **use**. The same word is used to describe how people "changed the truth of God into a lie" [[Romans 1:25]], linking the physical act to a spiritual exchange.
* `{{G730}}` **árrhēn** (male) and `{{G2338}}` **thēlys** (female): These terms identify the parties involved in the "natural **use**" that was abandoned. The text specifies **men** `{{G730}}` leaving the use of the **woman** `{{G2338}}` [[Romans 1:27]], grounding the concept of what is natural in the distinction between male and female.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5540}}` is significant within its narrow context, highlighting a departure from God's created order.
* **Abandonment of Natural Order:** The term is central to a passage describing a rejection of what is natural. This abandonment is presented as a direct consequence of humanity turning away from God, for which "God gave them up" [[Romans 1:26]].
* **Symptom of a Deeper Error:** The misuse of the body described by `{{G5540}}` is linked to a spiritual "error" `{{G4106}}`. The passage states that those involved were "receiving in themselves that recompence of their **error** which was meet" [[Romans 1:27]].
* **Consequence of Idolatry:** The context of Romans 1 shows that abandoning the "natural **use**" is a consequence that follows the initial sin of idolatry, where people "changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator" [[Romans 1:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5540}}` is more than a simple term for **use**. It is a key word in a theological argument about the consequences of rejecting God. Found only in Romans 1, it defines a "natural **use**" that is abandoned as a result of divine judgment on idolatry. It illustrates how a specific physical act is presented in Scripture as a symptom of a deeper spiritual rebellion against the Creator and His established order.
TRV